India Ink Preparation Csf
What is this test?
Cryptococcus neoformans, because of its large polysaccharide capsule, can be visualized by the India Ink stain. Organisms that possess a polysaccharide capsule exhibit a halo around the cell against the black background created by the India Ink. The modified technique employs 2% chromium mercury. A small drop of CSF is placed on a clean glass slide. Then, a small drop of 2% chromium mercury is mixed with the CSF on the slide. Immediately, a small amount of India ink (Pelikan Drawing Ink) is added. Finally, the coverslip is mounted and the preparation is observed with a bright-field microscope at magnifications.
Test Preparation
No special preparation is needed for India Ink Preparation Csf. Inform your doctor if you are on any medications or have any underlying medical conditions or allergies before undergoing India Ink Preparation Csf. Your doctor depending on your condition will give specific instructions.
Understanding your test results
| Gender | Age groups | Value |
| UNISEX | All age groups | Capsule is visible in positive cases |